A “risky” bench dubbed one of the “worst in Britain” remains coned off while improvement works continue in the area.
The newly installed bench on London Street, next to the Carriage Works, made national headlines after coming under criticism from residents for its placement.
It remains coned off while the wider regeneration project in the area continues.
Swindon Borough Council was asked to clarify what specific works will be carried out to improve the coned off area but have not elaborated.
The council previously explained that ongoing improvement works in the wider Railway Village will include trees, planters, and a pocket park at the nearby Sheppard Street underpass.
A spokesperson added that the bench placement, which is currently just steps away from a wall, would make more sense once this is completed.
They said: “As part of the improvement works ongoing in the Railway Village, we’re in the process of making London Street a better and more pleasant environment for pedestrians.
“This includes the addition of new trees, planters, benches and a pocket park outside the Sheppard Street underpass.
“The work is still taking place and the area around the pictured bench is not yet complete as further improvements are planned.
“When finished it will provide a resting place for those visiting the historic quarter or those navigating their way round the new heritage trails that have been created.
“The enhancements in the local area link in with the ongoing regeneration of the Carriage Works which, in the future, will have new businesses and organisations with more people visiting and working in the area.”
Last month the bench was ridiculed by many online, and the Daily Mail asked readers if it was “Britain’s worst bench.”
At the time, one member of the public said to the Adver: “Who in their right mind designed and placed a bench facing away from oncoming traffic on a road with a jolt out that is a hazard itself?
"Who is designing this for Swindon and why on earth face it away from traffic?
"I know they will say some nonsense but a bench there! Shocking and risky."
Speaking on Twitter, another resident added: “What's the point of this bench? Seems like a waste of money and resource.”
The council emphasised that the bench will be a valuable "resting place" and comes as part of a £3 million investment into the area.
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